A bachelor’s degree in nutrition has a different focus than the education necessary to become a dental hygienist, but some of the courses may be transferable. A nutrition baccalaureate generally targets careers such as dietetics, nutrition management or positions in the food industry, according to Arizona State University. Dental hygienists, however, provide prophylactic treatment to people’s teeth.

Dental Hygiene

Dental hygienists help prevent tooth decay and gum disease by cleaning teeth with a variety of instruments and tools. They might apply sealants or fluoride, take X-rays or teach patients strategies to manage their oral health. Each state regulates the practice of dental hygienists, and in some states, the hygienist may place temporary fillings or perform other dentistry tasks. All states require that dental hygienists have licenses, although requirements vary.

Educational Options

Although certificate and bachelor’s programs are routes to this occupation, most dental hygienists have an associate degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Master’s degrees are also available but not very common among hygienists. The associate degree or -- in some states -- a certificate, is usually acceptable to work in a dentist’s office, but research or teaching will likely require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. A public or school health program may also demand a higher degree.

Some Courses Overlap

Baccalaureate courses related to nutrition might not be acceptable for a degree as a dental hygienist, but they may meet requirements for electives. Some courses in a nutrition baccalaureate may overlap with dental hygiene requirements, however. The University of Texas at San Antonio notes that the baccalaureate in nutrition requires anatomy and physiology, both of which are also necessary in dental hygiene programs, according to the BLS. A recent graduate of a nutrition program may be able to transfer overlapping courses.

Examine the Possiblities

The first step in becoming a dental hygienist is to contact either the state medical or health board or an institution that offers a dental hygiene program to determine the requirements in your state. Since each state has different requirements, some nutrition classes might be acceptable in one state that aren't in another. Make sure you find an accredited program; the BLS notes you can't apply for a license unless you've graduated from an accredited program. Once you've graduated, you must apply for a dental hygienist’s license, which will probably require passing a written and a practical examination.

About the Author

Beth Greenwood is an RN and has been a writer since 2010. She specializes in medical and health topics, as well as career articles about health care professions. Greenwood holds an Associate of Science in nursing from Shasta College.